Changes in Fitness-Fatness Index following a Personalized, Community-Based Exercise Program in Physically Inactive Adults: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT

Fitness-fatness index (FFI) is used to identify those at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular events. It is measured as the ratio between an individual's cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and waist-to-height ratio. Studies suggest that CRF and waist-to-height ratio are modifiable and can be improved by exercise. However, there is limited evidence surrounding a personalized approach to exercise prescription. This study investigated the impact of a 12-week personalized exercise program on FFI among sedentary individuals. It was hypothesized that the intervention would be effective in improving FFI in this cohort. One hundred and forty-two participants were randomized into two groups i) personalised community-based intervention (n = 70); or ii) control (n = 72). Both groups underwent baseline anthropometric testing and a submaximal 'talk-test' to determine individual exercise intensities and baseline FFI. During the intervention, the control group underwent normal activities, whilst the treatment group received a 12-week personalised exercise program based on the American Council on Exercise (ACE) Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) guidelines. After 12-weeks, the treatment group demonstrated a significant increase in FFI (+13%), whilst the control group (-2%) showed a slight decrease (between-group difference, p = < 0.001). Both CRF (+12%) and waist-to-height (-2%) also showed significant favourable changes in the treatment group, with no change in the control group (between group difference, p = 0.01). These findings indicate that a personalised approach to exercise prescription using the ACE IFT guidelines are beneficial in reducing FFI. Consequently, FFI could be implemented within standardized approaches to exercise to help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions.